Travel by Train to Lake Fun in St. Joseph, Michigan

There are countless reasons to visit St. Joseph — stunning soft-sand beaches and sunsets, dunes, freshwater swimming, boating, fishing and kayaking — making it the perfect Lake Michigan destination. But there’s more beyond the water — nearby golfing, delicious craft wines and brews, downtown shopping and dining, children’s museums, festivals and year-round family fun! 

Arrive by car, plane, boat or even Amtrak train. The St. Joseph/Benton Harbor station is conveniently located within walking distance of lodgings and dozens of exciting activities. Traveling by train has its advantages; you won’t have to deal with highway traffic, construction or figuring out who gets to pick the playlist. Instead, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view with friends and family, all while eliminating the need for a parking spot.

Ride Amtrak's Pere Marquette Sunday through Saturday

Coming from Grand Rapids, MI

This train departs at 6 a.m. from Grand Rapids and arrives in St. Joseph at 8:09 a.m. Going back, the train leaves St. Joseph at 9:14 p.m. and arrives in Grand Rapids at 11:34 p.m. This means you can come for the day or, better yet, a longer stay (believe us, once you're here you won't want to leave).

Coming from Chicago

Stay at least two nights (a perfect weekend getaway) — be sure to book a room before you come. The train departs from Chicago at 6:30 p.m. (CT) and arrives in St. Joseph at 9:13 p.m. (ET). It leaves St. Joseph at 8:10 a.m. (ET) and arrives in Chicago at 9:08 a.m. (CT). In the summer, your evening arrival will be just in time to catch the sunset on Lake Michigan! 

Step Off the Train and Into the Fun: Five Things to Do

1. Hit the Beach

The St. Joseph train station is less than a five-minute walk from the beach, so you won’t need to go far to dip your toes in Lake Michigan. Silver Beach County Park, named one of the top 10 family beaches in the U.S. by Parents Magazine, is the perfect place to soak up the sun! Here, you’ll find 1,600 feet of soft, sandy shoreline along beautiful Lake Michigan, complete with volleyball nets, new playground equipment, a pavilion, restrooms and showers.

Stroll along the boardwalk and onto the South Pier. Watch the boats and freighters enter and leave the harbor. Take in a view of the North Pier lighthouses across the river. Maybe you’ll spot someone reeling in the catch of the day — or bring your pole and join them (just don’t forget your Michigan fishing license). If you need a snack, a beach concession stand offers food, drinks and other essentials. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer, so you can relax and feel safe. And be sure to stick around for sunset — nothing beats the beauty of the sun dipping below Lake Michigan’s horizon!

2. Splash into Water Adventures

One of the many reasons people visit Southwest Michigan is their love for being on the water and St. Joseph offers plenty of ways to make a splash! Third Coast Paddling has several rental locations in the St. Joseph/Benton Harbor area, including Jean Klock Park, Silver Beach County Park and the Paw Paw River. Every location offers stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, but Silver Beach also features loungeboards, skimboards and beach umbrellas. Whether you’re looking to paddle along a peaceful river or enjoy the waves of Lake Michigan, you can rent by the hour and create a fun-filled day on the water with friends and family! 

3. Sip Southwest Michigan Wines and Brews

Downtown St. Joseph is a paradise for wine and beer lovers, offering a variety of tasting experiences. On State Street, you’ll find three unique wine-tasting rooms — Lazy Ballerina, Baroda Founders Wine Cellar and White Pine Winery. Each features its own distinct flavors for a nominal tasting fee. Lazy Ballerina also offers spirits, hard cider and refreshing slushies, making it a great stop for those looking to mix up their tasting experience. The designated social district expands where you can enjoy delicious takeout food and alcoholic beverages.

If you prefer a cold beer paired with a sumptuous meal, head to Silver Harbor Brewing Company on Pleasant Street and try a smoked beer or another inventive brew. For an even wider variety, The Buck Burgers & Brew offers more than 70 beers on tap, plus a great selection of bottled options.

For a broader selection, visit The Market, home to the St. Joe Community Taproom, where you’ll find a curated collection of craft beers and the St. Joe Wine Shoppe, which specializes in small-batch, limited-production and unique finds. While at The Market, be sure to pick up some cheese from The Cheese Lady to pair perfectly with your wine.

Of course, no visit is complete without a great meal, and downtown St. Joseph has plenty of dining options to satisfy every craving. The choices, all within walking distance of each other, range from Silver Beach Pizza adjacent to the train station and Whirlpool Compass Fountain, to lake views at the Bistro on the Boulevard, Schu’s Grill & Bar or rooftop seating at Ryebelle’s. Check out our list of restaurants or visit St. Joseph Today to explore all the delicious possibilities!

Tip: Earn prizes while exploring the flavors of Southwest Michigan! Download the Southwest Michigan app and join the Makers Trail Passport Challenge.

4. Fill Your Stay with Family Fun

St. Joseph offers fun for all ages, making it a perfect destination for families! If you’re looking for a kid-friendly adventure, start with a ride on the Silver Beach Carousel, located just across the tracks from the train station. Choose your favorite hand-carved figure, enjoy classic treats like popcorn, cotton candy and Dippin’ Dots ice cream, play games and learn about the history of the Silver Beach Amusement Park. Don’t forget to browse unique souvenirs at The Brass Ring Gift Shop. 

While you’re at the Silver Beach Center, visit the hands-on fun at the Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone. Right across from the carousel, you’ll find the Whirlpool Compass Fountain, a splash pad your kids will beg to visit! They’ll have the time of their lives running through the water and even teens and college students love cooling off here in the summer. Make sure to bring a swimsuit and towel!

For even more hands-on fun, head up the bluff to the Curious Kids’ Museum, just a short walk from the train station. With interactive exhibits designed for kids ages one to ten, there’s plenty to explore, from face painting, a Farmer’s Market and Veterinarian Clinic to Old St. Joseph exhibits. From spring through fall, you can also enjoy the St. Joseph Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, where local vendors offer fresh produce, baked goods, flowers and artisan goods, or browse through Antiques on the Bluff on the first Sunday of the month. For a dose of artistic inspiration, stop by the Krasl Art Center, where you’ll find inspiring exhibitions, outdoor sculptures and creative activities the whole family can enjoy.

Want some arcade action? Challenge each other for the highest scores at Nardo’s Pizza — the Detroit-style pizzas are town-favorites, too. And seriously, what is more fun than choosing from lots of hand-dipped or soft serve ice cream flavors and treats? Lick your cones inside or take them to the bluff, grab a bench or swing and enjoy being together in paradise!  

If you’d rather not spend the whole day on foot, Scooter Joe’s offers Surrey bikes, scooter and a variety of bike rentals so you can explore St. Joseph with ease! 

5. Shop Unique Stores & Boutiques

St. Joseph has a variety of unique shops and boutiques downtown that you’ll want to explore. From shoes and clothing to souvenirs and one-of-a-kind gifts, there’s something for everyone including your furry friends! FuzzyButz Pet Bakery & Boutique offers a variety of pet products, including fresh-baked treats your four-legged companions will love. Step into G&M Variety Store, an old-school variety store filled with nostalgic finds, beach essentials and things you forgot to pack. You will be amazed at the choices in several toy and book stores. Or browse through the incredible selection of regional artists’ work at Chartreuse. At Perennial Accents, you’ll discover stylish home décor, high-quality cookware and thoughtful gifts. 

For Michigan-inspired keepsakes, Purely Michigan is a must-visit, offering locally made products and gifts that celebrate the Mitten State. If you’re looking for a shop with a purpose, visit Bound For Freedom, a fair trade and social justice boutique featuring ethically sourced goods that support meaningful causes. These are just a few of the fantastic shops waiting for you downtown — stroll and see what other treasures you can find!

Stay within Walking Distance of the Station

The St. Joseph area offers a variety of hotels, Two are just a short walk from the train station, downtown shops and restaurants — The Boulevard Inn, an all-suite stay, and Silver Beach Hotel. Both boast beautiful lake views and feature friendly staff dedicated to making your stay as enjoyable as possible. The Inn at Harbor Shores also offers waterfront views and complementary shuttles to and from the train station, plus downtown shopping, festivals and events. 

Come and stay awhile. There’s more fun waiting for you tomorrow!

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